Ap physics Oscillations

Front

What is the formula for the period of a simple pendulum?

Back

T = 2π√(L/g), where L is the length of the pendulum and g is the acceleration due to gravity.

Front

Define frequency in the context of oscillations.

Back

Frequency is the number of complete cycles of a periodic motion that occur in one second, measured in Hertz (Hz).

Front

What is the relationship between period and frequency?

Back

Period (T) is the reciprocal of frequency (f): T = 1/f.

Front

What is centripetal acceleration and how is it calculated?

Back

Centripetal acceleration (a_c) is the acceleration directed towards the center of a circular path, calculated as a_c = v²/r, where v is the tangential speed and r is the radius.

Front

How does the acceleration due to gravity affect the period of a pendulum?

Back

The period of a pendulum increases as the acceleration due to gravity decreases; specifically, T is proportional to √(1/g).

Front

What is the significance of the maximum angle in a simple pendulum?

Back

The maximum angle (less than 10 degrees) ensures that the motion can be approximated as simple harmonic motion.

Front

What happens to the period of a pendulum on the Moon compared to Earth?

Back

The period of a pendulum on the Moon is longer due to the lower acceleration due to gravity (1/6 of Earth's gravity).

Front

Where is the potential energy maximum in a simple harmonic oscillator?

Back

Potential energy is maximum at the maximum displacement (A) from the equilibrium position.

Front

Where is the kinetic energy maximum in a simple harmonic oscillator?

Back

Kinetic energy is maximum at the equilibrium position, where the speed is greatest.

Front

What is the formula for the total mechanical energy in a simple harmonic oscillator?

Back

Total mechanical energy (E) is constant and given by E = 1/2 k A², where k is the spring constant and A is the amplitude.